Does the job description really matter? Yes it does, but in a way that may surprise you. Little crack or gaping hole? One of the job description's core functions is to identify the skills and experience a person needs to fulfil a role.   If your staff do not have the skills specified in your job description, then you have gaps in your system and you will experience errors This is essential information because your business has designed its systems based on these assumptions of skill.  All your processes, communications and tools have been chosen on the assumption that the person has these skills.  If the person does not have these skills, then you have gaps in your system and you will experience errors. The bigger the gap, the bigger the risk for mistakes. Closing the gaps To ensure your business systems will work, managers must clearly understand the skills necessary to each role and ensure their team have these skills. If you do have gaps, you can use the 5 ways to coordinate work, to consider ways to close the gap:   Standardisation of Skill Standardisation of Output Standardisation of Process Direct Supervision Mutual Discussion. Possible solutions... Standardisation of Skill - arrange for training for them to learn the required skills. Standardisation of Output - not so helpful, but it is essential to be clear and specific about what they need to deliver so they can at least identify any gaps and ask for help. Standardisation of Process - increase the detailed process information available so they can follow it until their skill develops. Direct Supervision - buddy them up with a mentor who can pass on their skills and knowledge.  We learn best by observing and doing, but the mentor needs the right skills too! Mutual Discussion - you will need to have open, respectful discussions regarding the skills gap to identify the best solutions. Whatever you decide will depend on your particular situation, but whatever you do, make sure you identify the gaps and apply the right filler promptly! Contact us if you would like an objective, professional review of your systems. Business Systems Links The benefits of systems The ONLY purpose of a business system  What is a system?  5 Ways to get the work done  What to systemise? The 3 biggest systemising mistakes to avoid  How to make systemising easier Systemising for better results System vs. Process: is there a difference? Two magic systemising words  Business Systems Tools For more practical ideas subscribe to our newsletter now. Business Systems Tools River Empowerment Ltd provide the following Business Systems tools, training and consulting services: Consulting Services Training         Return to top